Director of HR Operations

HRIS/Payroll Operations, Compensation Management, And Employee Benefits Supervision

Blending both Accounting and HR functions, this role provides a compelling opportunity for finance or accounting professionals to pivot into HR Operations—a highly rewarding career path with significant visibility and strong upward career potential.

Join our collaborative HR team in a dynamic organization! We are seeking a talented analytical Director of HR Operations to lead overall payroll operations, manage employee benefits programs, design and advise on compensation strategy and benchmarking, and help drive implementation and optimization of HRIS modules for Republic Bank and our ten affiliate companies in the real estate and hospitality industries. This role acts as a thought leader behind Total Rewards programs, shaping how we attract, retain, and motivate employees while ensuring operational excellence and accuracy.

As part of our HR team, you'll have the chance to enhance your skills, take on new challenges, and advance your career in a supportive and innovative environment with a team that cares about your personal and professional development.

As Director of HR Operations, you will report to the Chief People Officer and closely work alongside a dedicated team of Human Resource Professionals supporting a base of 500 employees across the Chicagoland Area:

• Oversee core HR Operations functions – including HRIS, Payroll, Benefits, and Compensation – with a focus on operational excellence, data accuracy, timely execution, complete compliance, and employee experience.
• Leverage analytical and communication skills to interface with various levels from Executive Management to employees in addressing individual and business line needs and decisions related to benefit plan changes, leave management, incentive plans, salary ranges, and other HR, compensation, benefits, or payroll related requests.
• Support accurate and timely payroll processing for multiple company codes using the Paycom HCM system. Our employees depend on you!
• Partner with benefit brokers and vendors to plan, prepare, communicate, and implement annual medical benefit renewals for Open Enrollment.
• Develop compensation models to support current and competitive salary structures and incentive programs. Utilize external surveys to capture and benchmark market data.
• Manage the company’s 401k retirement plan, including employee enrollments, contribution changes, audits, non-discrimination testing, employer match, and employee education initiatives.
• Actively participate in Human Resources People Initiatives that make a difference.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, HR, Business or a related discipline.
• Desired Practical
  
  Experience:
  • A background in Accounting and Finance is a desirable addition that would enhance the team’s analytical and technical capabilities. We are committed to supporting candidates in successfully transitioning and building HR-specific expertise; OR
  • 5-7+ years of HR Operations experience in functional areas such as payroll, benefits, compensation, and HR compliance.
• Advanced technical computer proficiency including Excel and Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS), preferably Paycom.
• Ability to consult and advise internal customers and management across all levels of the organization as a subject matter expert.
• Ability to work and solve problems independently utilizing available resources and tools.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to spot anomalies and trends.
• Detail-oriented with good organizational and project management skills.
• Flexible mindset and able to effectively prioritize competing priorities while working in an exciting fast-paced team environment.
• Excellent customer-focused communication skills that include patience, attentiveness, and the general courtesy of treating others as you would like to be treated.
• Someone with the potential to learn and grow in the field of Human Resources.

Republic Bank of Chicago is fully committed to fostering a workplace culture where all individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive—because our most important asset is, and…